Hot Weather Care for Dogs

July 15, 2017

Do you enjoy summer? Or are you already looking forward to fall? Many of our canine pals love fun summertime activities, like camping, grilling, and swimming. However, the heat can be pretty tough on Fido, so you want to take some precautions to keep him cool and comfy when temperatures rise. Read on for some great summer care tips for dogs from a Lafayette, LA vet.

Safety

Learn how to recognize signs of heat exhaustion in dogs. Panting is one of the earliest ones. Drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and red or pale gums are more warning signs. If you notice any of these symptoms, immediately give Fido water, take him to a cool area, and call your vet. Also, never leave your pet in a closed vehicle. This is extremely dangerous!

Paw Care

Have you ever walked barefoot on hot sand? Ouch! Try to keep your canine buddy on soft ground, especially after he’s been swimming. You can also use paw balm or wax to protect Fido’s delicate paw pads.

Grooming

Brushing Fido regularly will remove dead fur and dander from his coat, which will help him stay cooler. Some dogs are also more comfortable with a cool summer ‘do. This isn’t the best option for every pup, however, so ask your vet for recommendations.

Water

Making sure Fido stays properly hydrated is absolutely crucial. Go ahead and drop an ice cube into his bowl on hot days.

Walks

Try to walk Fido in the mornings and evenings, when it’s cooler out. Also, avoid playing with your pet during the hottest parts of the day.

Frozen Treats

Who doesn’t love a cool snack on a sweltering day? Pick up some doggy ice cream for Fido at a local pet store. If you like to cook, you can also make him some homemade doggy treats. Look online for recipes. Just be sure to use only pet-safe ingredients.

Puppy Play Zone

If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, make sure he always has shade and, as mentioned above, fresh water. Don’t leave your furry friend outside too long. Fido will be both happier and more comfortable indoors, in rooms cooled by climate control. (Tip: for extra tail wags, get your pet a kiddie pool to splash around in.)